Pre-manufactured floor-ceiling drag anchor for a multi-story building having load bearing walls

ABSTRACT

Floor-ceiling drag anchors are provided for a building that includes load bearing walls that are able to withstand vertical loads and lateral loads. The building may be a low-rise building or a mid-rise building. The floor-ceiling drag anchors, in fastened cooperation with floor-ceiling panels, load bearing walls, and floor-ceiling corridor panels, transmit forces, in particular drag forces, across longitudinal and lateral directions of the building.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a non-provisional application that claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) and/or under PCT Article 8 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/104,239, filed on October 22, 38, and entitled “LOAD BEARING WALLS FOR A BUILDING” and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/178,515, filed on Apr. 22, 221, and entitled “LOW-MID RISE BUILDING HAVING LOAD BEARING WALLS, UTILITY WALLS, AND A CORRIDOR SYSTEM, AND OTHER ACCOMPANYING STRUCTURE, AND METHOD TO CONSTRUCT THE BUILDING.” The entire contents of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63/104,239 and 63/178,515 are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

The present application is related in subject matter to each of the following co-pending applications, each of which shares a common filing date of Oct. 21, 2021, entitled “MULTI-STORY BUILDING HAVING LOAD BEARING WALLS AND METHOD TO CONSTRUCT THE BUILDING” (docket no. SLP-US-927287-03-US-PCT), “MULTI-STORY BUILDING HAVING PODIUM LEVEL STEEL TRANSFER STRUCTURE” (docket no. SLP-US-927288-03-US-PCT), “PRE-MANUFACTURED FLOOR-CEILING PANEL FOR A MULTI-STORY BUILDING HAVING LOAD BEARING WALLS” (docket no. SLP-US-927289-03-US-PCT), “PRE-MANUFACTURED UTILITY WALL FOR A MULTI-STORY BUILDING HAVING LOAD BEARING WALLS” (docket no. SLP-US-927291-03-US-PCT), “PRE-MANUFACTURED FLOOR-CEILING CORRIDOR PANEL FOR A MULTI-STORY BUILDING HAVING LOAD BEARING WALLS” (docket no. SLP-US-927292-03-US-PCT), “MULTI-STORY BUILDING HAVING PREFABRICATED STAIR AND ELEVATOR MODULES” (docket no. SLP-US-927293-03-US-PCT), and “PRE-MANUFACTURED LOAD BEARING WALLS FOR A MULTI-STORY BUILDING” (docket no. SLP-US-927290-03-US-PCT), all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein, in their respective entireties.

BACKGROUND

Conventional construction is typically conducted in the field at the building job site. People in various trades (e.g., carpenters, electricians, and plumbers) measure, cut, and install material as though each unit were one-of-a-kind. Furthermore, activities performed by the trades are arranged in a linear sequence. The result is a time-consuming process that increases the risk of waste, installation imperfections, and cost overruns.

Traditional building construction continues to be more and more expensive and more and more complex. Changing codes, changing environments, and new technology have all made the construction of a building more complex than it was 10 or more years ago. In addition, trade labor availability is being reduced significantly. As more and more craftsmen retire, fewer and fewer younger workers may be choosing the construction industry as a career, leaving the construction industry largely lacking in skilled and able men and women to do the growing amount of construction work.

The construction industry is increasingly using modular construction techniques to improve efficiency. Modular construction techniques may include pre-manufacturing complete volumetric units (e.g., a stackable module) or one or more building components, such as wall panels, floor panels, and/or ceiling panels, offsite (e.g., in a factory or manufacturing facility), delivering the pre-manufactured modules or components to a building construction site, and assembling the pre-manufactured modules or components at the building construction site.

While modular construction techniques provide certain advantages over traditional construction techniques, challenges continue to exist in being able meet housing and other building demands in communities. For example, the construction industry, whether using modular construction techniques or traditional construction techniques, needs to be able to address issues such as reducing construction costs and construction waste, reducing time-to-build, providing building designs that efficiently use space, and other challenges brought on by increasing demands for affordable housing and other building needs.

SUMMARY

Implementations of this application relate to a drag anchor and associated drag anchor systems that may be used in construction of a building or edifice. Various aspects are disclosed herein.

In one aspect, a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel for a multi-story building having load bearing walls is disclosed. The floor-ceiling panel can comprise: a plurality of parallel metal studs; an end member affixed to a distal end of at least one stud of the plurality of parallel metal studs; and a drag anchor fixedly attached to the end member and the distal end, the drag anchor comprising a first body panel foldably attached to a second body panel at a first fold line, the first fold line in alignment and upon the distal end, the drag anchor further comprising a washer section having at least one edge in alignment with the first fold line, wherein the washer section is attached to the second body panel.

In some implementations, the pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel further comprising a plurality of ceiling layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.

In some implementations, the plurality of ceiling layers form a ceiling for an interior space.

In some implementations, the pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel further comprising a plurality of floor layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.

In some implementations, the plurality of floor layers form a floor for an interior space.

In some implementations, the pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel defines a horizontal diaphragm arranged transmit drag forces through the drag anchor.

In some implementations, the drag anchor is welded to the distal end at one or more of the first body panel and the second body panel.

In some implementations, the drag anchor is arranged to be fastened to a peripheral angle arranged about a periphery of the floor-ceiling panel.

In some implementations, the drag anchor is arranged to transmit drag force through the peripheral angle and into interior support members of an adjacent load bearing wall.

In some implementations, the interior support members of the adjacent load bearing wall are configured to transmit the force received from the drag anchor and the peripheral angle into sheet metal of a floor-ceiling corridor panel directly attached to the adjacent load bearing wall.

In another aspect, a multi-story building is disclosed. The building can comprise: one or more levels formed from prefabricated interior panels and prefabricated exterior panels, the one or more levels being substantially parallel to a ground plane defined by a foundation; and a floor-ceiling panel arranged to form a portion of a floor of the one or more levels, the floor-ceiling panel comprising: a plurality of parallel metal studs; an end member affixed to a distal end of at least one stud of the plurality of parallel metal studs; and a drag anchor fixedly attached to the end member and the distal end, the drag anchor comprising a first body panel foldably attached to a second body panel at a first fold line, the first fold line in alignment and upon the distal end, the drag anchor further comprising a washer section having at least one edge in alignment with the first fold line, wherein the washer section is attached to the second body panel.

In some implementations, the floor-ceiling panel further comprises a plurality of ceiling layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.

In some implementations, the plurality of ceiling layers form a ceiling for an interior space.

In some implementations, the floor-ceiling panel further comprises a plurality of floor layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.

In some implementations, the plurality of floor layers form the portion of the floor.

In some implementations, the pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel defines a horizontal diaphragm arranged transmit drag forces through the drag anchor and across the multi-story building.

In some implementations, the drag anchor is welded to the distal end at one or more of the first body panel and the second body panel.

In some implementations, the drag anchor is arranged to be fastened to a peripheral angle arranged about a periphery of the floor-ceiling panel.

In some implementations, the drag anchor is arranged to transmit drag force through the peripheral angle and into interior support members of an adjacent load bearing wall.

In some implementations, the interior support members of the adjacent load bearing wall are configured to transmit the force received from the drag anchor and the peripheral angle into sheet metal of a floor-ceiling corridor panel directly attached to the adjacent load bearing wall.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an example multi-story building that can have pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panels, load bearing walls, and other building parts described herein, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 4 is an axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 5 is an additional axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 6 is an end view of a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 7 is a side view of an interior of a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 8 is a detail view of an interconnection between a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel and a utility wall panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate an interconnection between corridor support members of a utility wall panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 10 is a view of a knife plate connection of load bearing wall panels, in accordance with some implementations.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are isometric and exploded views of a corner linking brace panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 12 is an axonometric view of a simplified skeletal diagram with an installed corner linking brace panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 13 is an axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 14 is an axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a floor-ceiling joist of a floor-ceiling panel with drag anchors, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 16 is a detail view of a drag anchor, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 17 is a detail view of an interconnection between a drag anchor, load bearing wall panel, and floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 18 is an alternate view of the interconnection between a drag anchor, load bearing wall panel, and floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 19 is an additional alternate view of the interconnection between a drag anchor, load bearing wall panel, and floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations.

FIG. 20 is a cut-away view of the interconnection of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the interconnection of FIG. 19 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. The aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated herein.

As used herein, the term “longitudinal” refers to a relative direction, generally in the direction of a major length of a component; however, longitudinal may refer to any length if the component is square. As used herein, the term “transverse” refers to a relative direction that is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal reference direction; however, lateral may refer to any direction that crosses a longitudinal direction in some examples where oblique members are arranged proximal longitudinal members. It should be readily understood that as both terms “longitudinal” and “lateral” are relative to a frame of reference, they may be used interchangeably depending upon a particular frame of reference, depending upon a desired final placement, and/or depending upon a specific context in which the two terms are used.

This disclosure is drawn, inter alia, to methods, systems, products, devices, and/or apparatuses generally related to pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panels that may be used in multi-story buildings having load bearing walls and other building parts (e.g., stair and elevator modules, podium level steel transfer structures, etc.), such as a low-rise or mid-rise building. The floor-ceiling corridor panels are structural in that they are able to absorb and/or transfer lateral and/or vertical loads, for example, from a horizontal diaphragm and/or other structural components of a multi-story building.

Traditionally, buildings are constructed using a metallic (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.) structural frame that is designed to resist vertical and lateral loads. Thus, the structural frame can be thought of as a skeletal structure of a multi-story building, wherein the structural frame provides structural support for the building by absorbing vertical loads due to the weight of multiple stories and lateral loads such as due to wind or earthquakes, as well as providing the framing for various walls, floors, ceilings, and other components that can be affixed to the structural frame during the course of constructing the building. However, manufacturing and assembling such a traditional and extensive structural frame can be time consuming and costly in terms of labor and material. For instance, an affordable housing crisis or other community needs may dictate that buildings with good structural integrity be built quickly and economically.

Therefore, various embodiments disclosed herein provide structural components to construct a building, for example, load bearing walls and other building parts such that the reliance upon a traditional structural frame can be reduced or eliminated, while at the same time enabling the building to meet lateral and vertical loading requirements. The load bearing walls can be pre-manufactured demising walls, end walls, shear walls, or other vertical walls, at least some of which are constructed and arranged so as to provide the structural support for the building in a manner that is sufficient to enable the building to handle vertical and lateral loads. The other building parts, such as floor panels and corridor panels and their accompanying components, in combination with the load bearing walls and coupling linkages between them, also enhance the structural integrity for the building (e.g., for handling or transferring loads), improve acoustical performance, and increase fire safety.

The building may be a multi-story low-rise building or a multi-story mid-rise building in some embodiments. Each story of the building can include a single unit or multiple units. For instance, a particular unit may be living space, office space, retail space, storage space, or other human-occupied space or otherwise usable space in the building. In the context of living space, as an example, each story of the building may include multiple units to respectively accommodate multiple tenants.

The use of the pre-manufactured load bearing walls and other pre-manufactured parts enables the building to be constructed with a shorter time-to-build and at a lower cost (relative to a building that is constructed using a traditional structural frame), and without sacrificing the structural integrity of the building. Moreover, the floor-ceiling panels of the building may be made thinner relative to conventional floor-ceiling panels, thereby enabling the building to have more stories per vertical foot compared to a traditional building. Thus, the building is able to provide more usable space (e.g., living space) as opposed to a traditional building that occupies the same footprint. In other cases, the thinner floor-ceiling panels provide more space between the floor and ceiling of each unit, which may be desirable for some occupants that prefer living spaces with “high ceilings.”

In some embodiments, the material composition of an entire module, as well as the wall, ceiling, and floor panels, may include steel. In some embodiments, the material composition may include aluminum. In still other embodiments, the wall, ceiling, and floor panels may be made from a variety of building suitable materials ranging from metals and/or metal alloys, composite materials, glass mat, gypsum, fiber cement, magnesium oxide, to wood and wood polymer composites (WPC), wood based products (lignin), other organic building materials (bamboo) to organic polymers (plastics), to hybrid materials, earthen materials such as ceramics, or any other suitable materials or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, cement, grout, or other pourable or moldable building materials may also be used. In other embodiments, any combination of suitable building material may be combined by using one building material for some elements of the entire module, as well as the wall, ceiling and floor panels, and other building materials for other elements of the entire module, as well as the wall, ceiling, and floor panels. Selection of any material may be made from a reference of material options (such as those provided for in the International Building Code), or selected based on the knowledge of those of ordinary skill in the art when determining load bearing requirements for the structures to be built. Larger and/or taller structures may have greater physical strength requirements than smaller and/or shorter buildings. Adjustments in building materials to accommodate size of structure, load, and environmental stresses can determine optimal economical choices of building materials used for components in an entire module, as well as the wall, ceiling, and floor panels described herein. Availability of various building materials in different parts of the world may also affect selection of materials for building the system described herein. Adoption of the International Building Code or similar code may also affect choice of materials.

Any reference herein to “metal” includes any construction grade metals or metal alloys as may be suitable for fabrication and/or construction of the entire module, as well as wall, ceiling, and floor panels, and/or other components thereof described herein. Any reference to “wood” includes wood, wood laminated products, wood pressed products, wood polymer composites (WPCs), bamboo or bamboo related products, lignin products and any plant derived product, whether chemically treated, refined, processed or simply harvested from a plant. Any reference herein to “concrete” or “grout” includes any construction grade curable composite that includes cement, water, and a granular aggregate. Granular aggregates may include sand, gravel, polymers, ash and/or other minerals.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an example multi-story building 10 that can have a podium level steel transfer structure, load bearing walls, and other building parts (e.g., pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panels, corridor panels, utility walls, window walls, and other type of walls, etc.), in accordance with some implementations. It is noted that the building 10 of FIG. 1 is being shown and described herein as an example for purposes of providing context for the various embodiments in this disclosure. The various embodiments may be provided for buildings that have a different number of stories, footprint, size, shape, configuration, appearance, etc. than those shown for the building 10.

The building 10 may be a multi-story building with one or more units (e.g., living, office, or other spaces) in each story. In the example of FIG. 1 , the building 10 has six stories/levels, labeled as levels L1-L6. Also as shown in FIG. 1 , the building 10 has a generally rectangular footprint, although the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided for buildings having footprints of some other shape/configuration. Moreover, each story may not necessarily have the same shape/configuration as the other stories. For instance in FIG. 1 , level L6 of the building 10 has a smaller rectangular footprint relative to levels L1-L5.

The ground floor level L1 may contain living spaces, office spaces, retail spaces, storage spaces parking, storage, common areas (such as a lobby), etc. or combination thereof. Levels L2-L6 may also contain living spaces, office spaces, retail spaces, storage spaces, common areas, etc. or combination thereof. Such spaces may be defined by discrete units, separated from each other and from corridors or common areas by interior demising walls and utility walls (not shown in FIG. 1 ). An individual unit in turn may be made up of multiple rooms that may be defined by load bearing or non-load bearing walls. For example, a single unit on any given level may be occupied by a tenant, and may include a kitchen, living room, bathrooms, bedrooms, etc. separated by walls, such as demising walls or utility walls. There may be multiple units (e.g., for multiple respective tenants) on each story, or only a single unit (e.g., for a single tenant) on a single story.

Each end of the building 10 includes an end wall 12. One or more panels that make up the end wall 12 may span a single story in height, or may span multiple stories (e.g., two or more stories) in height. Any of the sides of the building 10 may include a window wall 14 that accommodates a window 16, such as window(s) for unit(s). One or more panels that make up the window wall 14 may span a single story in height. Some parts of the building 10 may include an end wall without windows (e.g., not a window wall), such as an end wall 18, which may be comprised of a panel that spans one story of the building 10.

The unit(s) in each story may be formed using either an entire pre-manufactured module or from one or more pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panels and wall panels (not shown in FIG. 1 ), and the units may also adjoin each other via hallways having pre-manufactured corridor panels as floor panels. A floor-ceiling panel may form the floor of a first unit and a ceiling of a second unit below the first unit, and may also be used to form part of the roof of the building 10 when used as the ceiling panel for the top floor. The pre-manufactured wall panels may be used to form interior walls (e.g., demising walls, utility walls that serve as corridor walls, etc.), window walls (e.g., exterior window wall 14 that accommodate one or more windows 16), utility walls (e.g., walls with utilities such as plumbing and electrical wiring contained therein), end walls, etc. According to various embodiments, at least some of these panels may be pre-manufactured off-site, and then installed on site by coupling them together to construct the building 10. The various components of such panels and how such panels are attached to each other will be described later below.

The sides of interior walls that face the interior space (e.g., living space) of the building 10 may be covered by a finish panel, such as wall paneling, for decorative and/or functional purposes. Analogously, the sides of floor-ceiling panels that face the interior space (e.g., living space) of the building 10 may also be covered with laminate flooring, finish panels, tile, painted/textured sheetrock, etc. for decorative and/or functional purposes. For exterior walls such as end walls and window walls, the sides of these walls facing the outside environment may be covered with waterproofing membranes, tiles, glass, or other material for decorative and/or functional purposes.

According to various implementations, the building 10 is constructed using load bearing walls (such as demising walls, end walls, etc.). In this manner, such walls are able to support vertical loads, as well as lateral loads. Because these walls are load bearing components, the building 10 can eliminate or reduce the use of an extensive steel structural frame in at least some of the levels. For instance, a steel structural frame (e.g., made of an array of beams and columns to which each and every floor-ceiling panel and wall are directly attached) may be absent in levels L2-L6. A steel structural frame may be used in level L1 and/or further structural reinforcement may be given to load bearing walls that are used in level L1 alternatively or in addition to a structural frame, so as to provide structural integrity at ground level.

The building 10, having six levels L1-L6, is defined in some jurisdictions as a mid-rise building (e.g., buildings having five to 12 levels). Buildings having four levels and under are defined in some jurisdictions as a low-rise building. The various embodiments of the load bearing walls described herein may be used in low-rise and mid-rise buildings. Such low-rise and mid-rise buildings may have various fire ratings, with a 2-hour fire rating for mid-rise buildings of six stories or more and a 1-hour fire rating for buildings of five stories or less being examples for some of the buildings that use the load bearing walls described herein.

In some embodiments, the load bearing walls and other building parts described herein (in the absence of a structural frame, or with a reduced amount thereof) may be used for buildings that have a greater number of stories than a typical low-rise or mid-rise building. In such embodiments, the load bearing walls and/or other building parts described herein may be implemented with additional and/or modified structural components, so as to account for the increased load associated with the greater number of stories.

For purposes of example and illustration, some buildings described herein will have a generally rectangular footprint, and will be assumed to be a low-rise building having at most five stories (levels), and it is understood that the various implementations described herein may be used for buildings with other numbers of stories. The features disclosed herein may be adapted to construct buildings having other shapes, sizes, heights, configurations, number of stories, etc., or any other building where load bearing walls and the other building parts described herein are used in the absence of extensive structural frames on at least some stories. In some embodiments, the various operations of a construction sequence may be performed in a different order, omitted, supplemented with other operations, modified, combined, performed in parallel, etc., relative to what is shown and described herein.

Generally, construction of mid-rise buildings may include a podium level foundation created on-site, through skilled labor including welding, riveting, and other joining, as well as through complex construction and surveying techniques, including complex structural framing built on-site prior to traditionally constructing units into this traditional structural framing.

In some embodiments, the load bearing walls and other building parts described herein (in the absence of a structural frame, or with a reduced amount thereof) may be used for buildings that have a greater number of stories than a typical low-rise or mid-rise building. In such embodiments, the load bearing walls and/or other building parts described herein may be implemented with additional and/or modified structural components, so as to account for the increased load associated with the greater number of stories.

FIG. 2 shows a partially constructed building 20 having floor-ceiling panels 22 at a second floor level (L2) of the building, in accordance with some implementations. For purposes of example and illustration, the building 20 will have a generally rectangular footprint, and will be assumed to be a low-rise building having at least four stories (floor levels). A construction sequence described with respect to FIG. 2 and in the other figures that will be shown and described later may be adapted to construct buildings having other shapes, sizes, heights, configurations, number of stories, etc., or any other building where load bearing walls, floor-ceiling panels, and the other building parts described herein are installed in the absence of extensive structural frames on at least some stories. In some embodiments, the various operations in the construction sequence may be performed in a different order, omitted, supplemented with other operations, modified, combined, performed in parallel, etc., relative to what is shown and described with respect to FIG. 2 and the other figures.

To describe a construction sequence to arrive at the partially constructed building 20 in FIG. 2 , a foundation 24 is first formed. The foundation 24 may be a steel-reinforced concrete slab that is poured on the ground to define a footprint 26 of the building 20, or may be some other type of shallow or deep foundation structure. Furthermore, excavation of the ground may also be performed to form a basement and/or elevator pit(s) 28 that form part of one or more elevator shafts to accommodate one or more elevators.

Next in the construction sequence, pre-manufactured stair and elevator modules 30 and 31 may be built on the foundation 24, and positioned such that the elevator portions of the modules 30 and 31 that will contain the elevator shaft are superimposed over the elevator pit(s) 28. The modules 30 and 31 according to various embodiments may be two stories in height, and there may be one or more of these modules per building, with two modules 30 and 31 shown by way of example in FIG. 2 .

Each of the modules 30 and 31 may be comprised of vertical columns made of steel, and horizontal beams spanning between the columns and also made of steel. Thus, the columns and the beams form a structural frame.

The modules 30 and 31 of various embodiments are positioned at specific locations of the foundation 24, depending upon any desired implementation of a final building. In the example of FIG. 2 , the modules 30 and 31 are positioned on opposite sides of the building 20. Other configurations may be used, such as positioning one or more modules at a central location in the building footprint 26 or at any other suitable location(s) on the building footprint 26.

Next in the construction sequence, braced frames are installed on the foundation 24 in relation to the modules 30 and 31. For example, braced frames 32 and 34 are arranged perpendicularly around and in close proximity to the module 30, such that the module 30 is nested by the braced frames 32 and 34. With respect to the module 31, braced frames 36 and 38 are also arranged perpendicularly but spaced away from the module 31 by a greater distance.

The braced frames 32-38 may be arranged on the foundation 24 in any suitable location and orientation, dependent on factors such as the footprint or configuration of the building 20, source of lateral and/or vertical loads, location/orientation for optimal stabilization, etc. Any suitable number of braced frames may be provided at the ground level. The braced frames may further vary in configuration. The example of FIG. 2 depicts some brace frames that are generally planar in shape (made of two columns and at least one horizontal beam that joins the two columns), with cross beams (X shaped beams) at the center of the braced frames. The braced frames 32-38 may span one, two, or other stories in height or intermediate heights, and multiple braced frames may also be vertically coupled.

According to various embodiments, the modules 30 and 31 are used as erection aids that guide the positioning and orientation of the braced frames 32-38. For instance, the modules 30 and 31 are installed first, and then the braced frames 32-38 are arranged relative to the location of the modules 30 and 31. The braced frames may be directly welded (or otherwise attached/connected) to the modules, or may be linked to the module(s) over a distance via linking beams or other structural framing. In this manner, the modules 30 and 31 stabilize the braced frames 32-38, and the braced frames 32-38 can operate to also absorb vertical and lateral loads from the building 20 and/or transfer such load(s) to the modules 30 and 31 via their linking connections.

The next phase of the construction sequence involves the erection of a steel transfer structure 40 (e.g., a podium structure) at ground level. The steel transfer structure 40 comprises a steel frame that receives and transfers load to the foundation 24. The steel transfer structure 40 may have vertical members 42 (columns) having a height that spans one story, girders 44 that join pairs of columns 42, and beams 46 that perpendicularly join pairs of girders 44.

After completion of the steel transfer structure 40, the next phase of the construction sequence involves the placement/installation of the floor-ceiling panels 22 over consecutive beams 46, and more specifically, hanging the floor-ceiling panels 22 onto the beams 46. A floor deck comprised of floor-ceiling panels 22 thus results after such installation.

Afterwards, load bearing walls 50 (e.g., demising and end walls) are installed by being positioned over the beams 46, and utility walls 52 are then installed by being hung onto the load bearing walls 50.

Next, corner linking brace panels (see FIG. 11 ) and floor-ceiling corridor panels 23 (which may be formed similarly in some respects as the floor-ceiling panels 22) are hung from the utility walls 52 and other structures. In general, the corner linking brace panels may be arranged on a first corridor level, after which the floor-ceiling corridor panels 23 are hung from the utility walls 52 and the pre-installed corner linking brace panels. Upon installation, the formed corridors may be immediately used to traverse the multi-story building 20 and install further structures to complete construction.

According to the examples depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the space between consecutive beams 46 is sized to receive three adjoining floor-ceiling panels 22, although the size of the floor-ceiling panels and the space between consecutive beams 46 and girders 44 can vary from one implementation to another. For instance, some implementations may install a different number of panels or different sized panels between consecutive beams 46. Other sizing and dimensional differences are similarly based on particular installations and implementations. Hereinafter, particular features of floor-ceiling corridor panels, associated corner linking brace panels, and drag anchor systems employing the same are described in detail.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations. As shown, a corner linking brace panel 103 is installed into a respective corner of an anticipated corridor. The anticipated corridor is defined by adjacent utility wall panels 108 and/or load bearing wall panels 106.

For example, during construction, floor-ceiling panels 104 are installed as described above. Thereafter, load bearing wall panels 106 (e.g., interior demising walls and/or exterior end walls) are installed. Subsequently, the utility wall panels 108 are installed. Having the anticipated corridor defined by this installation, the corner linking brace panel 103 may then be installed. Although not illustrated here in FIG. 3 , it will become apparent that the corner linking brace panel 103 provides similar support members as those which will be described in reference to the utility wall panels 108.

Accordingly, floor-ceiling corridor panels 102 may be “hung” or placed onto the support members of both the utility walls 108 and the corner linking brace panel 103. The floor-ceiling corridor panels 102 are supported on the support members through angle members 110. Additional support members 114 may also be arranged to at least partially support the angle members 110. The additional support members 114 are also referred to as “corridor beams,” “corridor linking beams,” and/or “corridor composite beams” herein, depending upon the context of a particular installation.

The angle members 110 at least partially surround the periphery of each floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, and have several through holes 112 defined there-through. These angle members 110 abut directly against the support members and fasteners (e.g., self-tapping or thread-forming bolts and/or other fasteners) are placed to fixedly attach and support the floor-ceiling corridor panels.

FIG. 4 is an axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations. The view of FIG. 4 further illustrates the relationship between load bearing walls 106, utility walls 108, and the floor-ceiling corridor panels 102. For example, each load bearing wall 106 includes a corridor support member 161 defined along a longitudinal axis thereof. The corridor support member 161 may be formed of metal, such as angle and/or other stock. The corridor support member 161 may include captive fasteners or fastener holes defined thereon arranged to match fastener holes 112.

Additionally, each utility wall 108 may include a corridor support member 181 defined along a longitudinal axis thereof. The corridor support member 181 may be formed of metal, such as hollow structural steel (HSS) of other stock. The corridor support member 181 may include threaded holes, captive fasteners, or fastener holes defined thereon arranged to match fastener holes 112.

Following hanging of the floor-ceiling corridor panels 102, fasteners may be passed through each angle member 110, through holes 112, and into a respective corridor support member 161 and/or 181. Furthermore, fasteners may be passed through each angle member 110, through holes 112, and into additional support members 114. In this manner, each corridor panel 102 may be fixedly attached to the adjacent building components thereby forming a useable, safe, and efficient corridor. This corridor, and subsequent corridors formed above/below, may at least temporarily function to allow construction crews access about the building 20 for construction and finishing purposes.

Furthermore, drag forces, shear forces, and/or loads may be distributed throughout the partially constructed building and into the fixedly attached floor-ceiling corridor panels 102. For example, FIG. 5 is an additional axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations. As shown, edifices 40 are formed through placement of associated load bearing wall panels, utility wall panels, and floor-ceiling panels. As forces are introduced through use of the building, forces 42 and 43 are transmitted throughout a horizontal diaphragm formed by the floor-ceiling panels 104, and into surrounding floor-ceiling corridor panels 102. In this manner, the attached floor-ceiling corridor panels 102 at least partially absorb significant forces and stabilize the multi-story building.

As will become apparent throughout the description of the remaining figures, drag anchors in unison with the internal structure of the floor-ceiling corridor panels 102, as well as intervening elements, provide a relatively sturdy manner in which forces can be transmitted and absorbed, and function to stabilize the building, in addition to increasing fire safety and other technical benefits. Hereinafter, a more detailed discussion of the structure of each floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 is provided.

FIG. 6 is an end view of a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, and FIG. 7 is a side view of an interior 200 of a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, in accordance with some implementations. Generally, each pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 has a defined interior 200 that acts as a metal-studded, metal-enveloped horizontal diaphragm configured to receive, and transmit, forces transmitted throughout the building 20 as described herein.

The floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may include a first layer of board 202 and a second layer of board 204 affixed onto the first layer of board 202. The first layer of board 202 and the second layer of board 204 may comprise gypsum board, glass fiber mat gypsum board, or any suitable board material. The first layer of board 202 and the second layer of board 204 may generally extend the full length and width of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102.

The floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may also comprise a first sheet metal layer 206 affixed onto the second layer of board 204. The sheet metal layer 206 may be formed of relatively light gauge material. In one implementation, the sheet metal layer 206 is a 22-gauge steel sheet. The sheet metal layer 206 may generally extend the full length and width of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102.

The floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may further comprise a plurality of metal studs 208 that are arranged transversely across portions of the sheet metal layer 206. Each stud of the metal studs 208 may be spaced approximately 16-inches from one another, in some implementations. Furthermore, each stud of the metal studs 208 may be formed of c-channel steel, or another steel stock.

The floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 further comprises a second sheet metal layer 210 affixed onto the plurality of metal studs 208. The sheet metal layer 210 may be formed of relatively light gauge material. In one implementation, the sheet metal layer 210 is a 22-gauge steel sheet. The sheet metal layer 210 may generally extend the full length and width of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102.

According to one implementation, sheet metal screws are used to attach both of the first sheet metal layer 206 and the second sheet metal layer 210 to the plurality of metal studs 208. In some implementations, at least one of the first sheet metal layer 206 and the second sheet metal layer 210 are at least partially welded to one or more of the plurality of metal studs 208. In some implementations, a combination of fasteners and welding may be used to attach sheet metal layers to the plurality of metal studs 208.

The floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 further comprises a third layer of board 212 affixed onto the second sheet metal layer 210. The floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may also include a layer of foam 214 affixed onto the third layer of board. Additionally, the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may further include a fourth layer of board 216 affixed onto the layer of foam 214. The third layer of board 212 and the fourth layer of board 216 may comprise fiber cement board, medium density overlay (MDO) board, Magnesium oxide (MgO) board, or any suitable board material. The third layer of board 212 and the fourth layer of board 216 may generally extend the full length and width of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102. The layer of foam 214 may comprise a 2-inch thick layer of high density foam or polystyrene, in some implementations.

Further defining the interior 200 of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, longitudinal metal tracks 218 may extend the length of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 (see FIG. 6 ). The longitudinal metal tracks 218 may be arranged at either longitudinal side or edge of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102. The longitudinal metal tracks 218 may be fixedly attached to the plurality of metal studs 208 with fasteners 220 and/or welding. Additionally, longitudinal portions of the angle 110 may be welded onto the longitudinal metal tracks 218. Alternatively, or in combination, fasteners may be used.

Somewhat similarly, transverse end studs 208′ may be arranged at either distal end of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 (see FIG. 7 ). The transverse end studs 208′ may be at the same relative layer as the plurality of metal studs 208, may be arranged and attached in a similar manner. Additionally, transverse portions of the angle 110 may be welded along weld line 111 to the transverse end studs 208′. Alternatively, or in combination, fasteners may be used.

As briefly described above, each floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may be surrounded by angle 110 and fixedly attached to corridor support members 181 of adjacent utility wall panels 108.

FIG. 8 is a detail view of an interconnection between a pre-manufactured floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 and a utility wall panel 108, in accordance with some implementations. As shown, a utility wall panel 108 comprises the corridor support member 181 arranged parallel to the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102. The corridor support member 181 may include welded cantilever boxes 182 welded thereon, and configured to fixedly attach to internal support members 184 of the utility wall panel 108.

In one implementation, the cantilever boxes 182 are attached to the internal support members 184 with fasteners 183. However, welded connections are also applicable. The particular number of cantilever boxes 182 may be based upon an overall design of an associated building 20. Additionally, although described as “boxes,” L-brackets and/or other bracket designs may be used alternatively or in combination with the illustrated boxes.

As forces are applied to the utility wall panel 108 from, for example, edifices 40 or other portions of the building 20, the internal support members 184 transfer these forces across the cantilever boxes 182, into the longitudinal corridor support members 181, and further into the interior 200 of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102. Additionally, forces may be transmitted in the longitudinal direction along the corridor support members 181 and interconnections there-between. Forces are transferred to sheet steel layers top and bottom of studs via connection to 218 and 110.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate an interconnection 190 between corridor support members 181 of two utility wall panels 108, in accordance with some implementations. As shown, distal ends of each corridor support member 181 can terminate in an optional notch 194 configured to mate with bracket 193. A knife plate 191 extends orthogonally from the bracket 193 and is welded thereon or is integrally formed as part of the bracket. The bracket 193 is also welded to one or both of an interior and exterior of the distal ends of the corridor support member 181. Additionally, through holes 195 are formed in each knife plate 191 for mating with connection plate 196. Fasteners may be used to fixedly attach adjacent knife plates 191 to one another, and to therefore attach each adjacent longitudinal corridor support member 181 to one another. Moreover, knife plates 192 are internally supported by each utility wall panel 108 and may extend orthogonally therefrom, such that said knife plates 192 may be fastened to the brackets 193 either with fasteners, by welding, or a combination of the two.

FIG. 10 is a view of a knife plate connection 198 of load bearing wall panels 106, in accordance with some implementations. Somewhat similar to the knife plate connections between adjacent utility wall panels 108, the knife plate connection 198 is used to interconnect different structural elements such that forces are appropriately transmitted. While particular arrangements may differ according to any desired implementation of a floor plan of the building 20, in general, two or more steel plates 197 and fasteners 199 may be used in combination to join longitudinal corridor support member 181 to additional corridor support member 114, as shown. The plates 197 may be fastened to adjacent support members 181, 114 using fasteners such that on-site installation may be performed.

As described above, installation of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 into a portion of an anticipated corridor requires, at least, installation of one or more utility wall panels 108, load bearing walls 106, and or additional support members 114. Each floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 may hang on associated support members and be fixedly attached on-site with minimal/reduced labor. In addition to the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, a corner linking brace panel 103 may be pre-installed prior to hanging a floor-ceiling corridor panel 102 near a corner condition (see 103, FIG. 3 ).

FIGS. 11A and 11B are isometric and exploded views, respectively, of a corner linking brace panel 103, in accordance with some implementations. Generally, the overall format of the corner linking brace panel 103 is similar for every iteration. For example, the corner linking brace panel 103 may include, at least, a portion of angle 131, two lengths of HSS 133 arranged perpendicular to, and welded to, said portion of angle 131, and a third length of HSS 134 abutted to, perpendicular to, and welded to, each of the two lengths of HSS 133. Any combination of end plate 137 and/or bracket assemblies 135/136 may also be welded to distal ends of the third length of HSS 134.

For example, and without limitation, plates 137 may be welded to distal ends of the third length of HSS 134, of the corner linking brace panel 103, intended to be mated and fixedly attached to a bracing frame (e.g., see FIG. 2 ). For example, and without limitation, bracket assemblies 135/136 may be welded to distal ends of the third length of HSS 134, of the corner linking brace panel 103, intended to be mated and fixedly attached to a knife plate connection (e.g., see FIGS. 9B and 10 ). It is noted that both of end plates 137 and bracket assemblies 135/136 may be used in a single corner linking brace panel 103, in some iterations. Similarly, only end plates 137 may be used in some iterations of the corner linking brace panel 103. Moreover, only bracket assemblies 135/136 may be used in some iterations of the corner linking brace panel 103. Accordingly, many varieties of the corner linking brace panel 103 are possible, and each may be pre-manufactured according to specifications of a particular building such that pre-assembled corner linking brace panels 103 are available for rapid installation while constructing a building.

FIG. 12 is an axonometric view of a simplified skeletal diagram with an installed corner linking brace panel 103, in accordance with some implementations. It is noted that the simplified diagram of FIG. 12 is provided for illustrative purposes only. For example, no load bearing panels, floor-ceiling panels, or other panels are fully illustrated. Furthermore, as described in detail above, the skeletal structure displayed is predominately internal to the wall and other panels described above. However, the simplified skeletal diagram of FIG. 12 illustrates both a knife plate connection (e.g., bracket assembly 135/136) and an end plate connection 137 so as to further illustrate possible installations of the corner linking brace panel 103. Additionally, while not shown here, fasteners may be attached through the angle 131 and into an associated support member.

Floor-ceiling corridor panels 102 have been described herein that receive, transfer, and/or absorb forces and drag transmitted through horizontal diaphragms formed from floor-ceiling panels 104, as well as lateral forces (e.g., see FIG. 5 ) and vertical forces associated with building 20. Hereinafter, drag anchors and associated connections are described in detail.

FIG. 13 is an axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations. As shown, edifices 40 are formed through placement of associated load bearing wall panels 106, utility wall panels 108, and floor-ceiling panels 104. As forces are introduced through use of the building, forces 42 and 43 are transmitted throughout a horizontal diaphragm formed by the floor-ceiling panels 104, through metal studs 300 and associated drag anchors 301, and into surrounding floor-ceiling corridor panels 102. In this manner, the attached floor-ceiling corridor panels 102 at least partially absorb significant forces and stabilize the multi-story building.

As will become apparent throughout the description of the remaining figures, drag anchors 301 in unison with the internal structural studs 300 of the floor-ceiling panels 104, the floor-ceiling corridor panels 102, as well as intervening elements, provide a relatively sturdy manner in which forces can be transmitted and absorbed, and function to stabilize the building, in addition to increasing fire safety and other technical benefits.

FIG. 14 is an axonometric view of a partially constructed multi-story building, in accordance with some implementations. FIG. 14 illustrates the same building as FIG. 13 , with internal studs 300 and drag anchors 301 being obscured such that a finished look of the building is viewed. Generally, large pane glass windows or other decorative and/or functional panels may be installed to cover the exposed end-wall openings 302 shown. For example, as the internal studs 300 and drag anchors 301 are configured to transmit significant drag loads, virtually any end-wall coverings for the openings 302 may be used. Accordingly, while many aesthetic features of the building 20 are based on the pre-fabricated nature of the load bearing structures being placed and bolted to one another, any desirable ornamental or functional end-wall may be installed here considering the sturdy and safe nature of the drag anchors 301 and associated elements herein-described.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a floor-ceiling joist or stud 300 of a floor-ceiling panel 104 with drag anchors 301, in accordance with some implementations. As illustrated, the floor-ceiling panel 104 forms a horizontal diaphragm. The joist or stud 300 is arranged internally to the floor-ceiling panel 104, substantially coplanar with the horizontal diaphragm formed therein. Each floor-ceiling panel 104 may contain a plurality of studs 300 (or studs arranged similarly), lain transversely and coplanar to the horizontal diaphragm. At least four (4) studs 300 are arranged within the horizontal diaphragm, extending substantially the entire transverse width of the diaphragm, extending orthogonal to a longitudinal edge of an adjacent load bearing wall panel 106, extending orthogonal to a longitudinal edge of an adjacent floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, and terminated with at least two drag anchors 301.

Each drag anchor 301 or the at least two drag anchors, is fixedly attached to distal ends of the associated internal studs 300. In some implementations, each drag anchor is welded to an internal stud 300, distal end. Furthermore, each drag anchor 301 may be fixedly attached through fasteners, to an adjacent load bearing wall panel 106. Each adjacent load bearing wall panel 106 includes internal support members configured to receive force transmitted through an adjacent drag anchors 301. Each internal support member of the load bearing wall panel 106 is configured to transmit the force received from each drag anchor 301 to a longitudinal corridor support member 161. Finally, each longitudinal corridor support member 161 is arranged to transmit force in both the longitudinal direction and the orthogonal direction (i.e., force vector may be a sum of both vectors and disperse within the interior 200 of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, see FIG. 6 ), into an attached floor-ceiling corridor panel 102.

The drag anchors 301 may be relatively sturdy welded anchor assemblies formed as described below.

FIG. 16 is a detail view of a drag anchor 301, in accordance with some implementations. The drag anchor 301 may include a first body panel 310 foldably attached to a second body panel 312, at a perpendicular orientation. The first body panel 310 and second body panel 312 may be formed of a single, continuous plate of steel folded at fold line 311. In one implementation, the first body panel 310 and the second body panel 312 are ½-inch thick steel. In one implementation, the first body panel 310 and the second body panel 312 are ¼-inch thick steel. In one implementation, the first body panel 310 and the second body panel 312 are formed of steel having a thickness between about ¼-inch to about ¾-inch. In one implementation, the first body panel 310 and the second body panel 312 are formed from 14-gauge steel. In one implementation, the first body panel 310 and the second body panel 312 are formed from at least 14-gauge steel.

The drag anchor 301 further includes at least one plate washer section (only a single section is shown), labeled 314, and arranged to abut the fold line 311 and upper and lower edges of the body panels 310 and 312. In one implementation, a single plate washer is used as illustrated. In some implementations, more than one plate washer section is used. The plate washer sections 314 are fastened onto the body panel 312 with a bolt, in some implementations. The plate washer section 314 comprises a through-hole that is aligned to an underlying through hole 316 formed in the body panel 312. The plate washer sections 314 may be square in at least one implementation. The plate washer sections 314 may be formed of the same or similar material as the second body panel 312. The plate washer sections may be formed of the same, lesser, or greater thickness as the second body panel 312. The plate washer sections 314 may be cut or die-cut from a blank of plate steel, in some implementations.

The second body panel 312 may comprise an edge 322 that is welded to an end-cap of the internal stud 300. The first body panel 310 may comprise an edge 324 that is welded to the body of the internal stud 300. The second body panel 312 may receive fasteners 326 inserted from an exterior of the floor-ceiling panel 104, through a peripheral c-channel of the floor-ceiling panel, and be threaded therein.

FIG. 17 is a detail view of an interconnection between a drag anchor 301, load bearing wall panel 106, and floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, in accordance with some implementations. Additionally, FIG. 18 is an alternate view of the interconnection between a drag anchor, load bearing wall panel, and floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations. As illustrated, the drag anchor 301 is arranged to transmit forces through internal support members of the load bearing wall panel 106 and into the interior 200 of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102. The drag anchor 301 is fixedly attached to angle 330 (e.g., metal angle, such as steel) arranged and fixedly attached at the periphery of the floor-ceiling panel 104. The angle 330 receives force from the drag anchor 301 and transmits the force to rigid steel member 336 arranged internal to the load bearing wall panel 106.

The rigid steel member 336 is bolted to plate 332 with fasteners 334. The rigid steel member 336 and plate 332 transmit the received force to longitudinal corridor support member 161. The longitudinal corridor support member 161 transmits the force received from the rigid steel member 336 and plate 332 to angle 110. The 336, 332, 334 connection is used to transfer lateral loads along 336 from knife plates at respective ends of end walls. Connection 336 to 161 can be made by welds similar to 336 and 330.

The angle 110 transmits and disperses the received force into the upper and lower steel sheets defining the interior 200 of the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, along the longitudinal direction about the floor-ceiling corridor panel, along the lateral direction across, transversely, the floor-ceiling corridor panel 102, and across any additional support members (e.g., support member 114 and/or corner linking brace 103, if installed).

FIG. 19 is an additional alternate view of the interconnection between a drag anchor, load bearing wall panel, and floor-ceiling corridor panel, in accordance with some implementations. FIG. 20 is a cut-away view of the interconnection of FIG. 19 . FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the interconnection of FIG. 19 .

As described above, floor-ceiling corridor panels and drag anchors have been provided. The floor-ceiling corridor panels and drag anchors, when used to fabricate a multi-story building having pre-fabricated load bearing walls, work to transmit and/or absorb drag, lateral, and vertical forces.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and embodiments can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, are possible from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. This disclosure is not limited to particular methods, which can, of course, vary. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, the terms can be translated from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

In general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.).

If a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).

Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). Virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

For any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. All language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 items refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 items. Similarly, a group having 1-5 items refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 items, and so forth.

The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. Such depicted architectures are merely embodiments, and in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated” such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as “associated with” each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being “operably connected”, or “operably coupled”, to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being “operably couplable”, to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific embodiments of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are possible. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel for a multi-story building having load bearing walls, the floor-ceiling panel comprising: a plurality of parallel metal studs; an end member affixed to a distal end of at least one stud of the plurality of parallel metal studs; and a drag anchor fixedly attached to the end member and the distal end, the drag anchor comprising a first body panel foldably attached to a second body panel at a first fold line, the first fold line in alignment and upon the distal end, the drag anchor further comprising a washer section having at least one edge in alignment with the first fold line, wherein the washer section is attached to the second body panel.
 2. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of ceiling layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.
 3. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 2, wherein the plurality of ceiling layers form a ceiling for an interior space.
 4. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of floor layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.
 5. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 4, wherein the plurality of floor layers form a floor for an interior space.
 6. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 1, wherein the pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel defines a horizontal diaphragm arranged transmit drag forces through the drag anchor.
 7. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 1, wherein the drag anchor is welded to the distal end at one or more of the first body panel and the second body panel.
 8. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 1, wherein the drag anchor is arranged to be fastened to a peripheral angle arranged about a periphery of the floor-ceiling panel.
 9. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 8, wherein the drag anchor is arranged to transmit drag force through the peripheral angle and into interior support members of an adjacent load bearing wall.
 10. The pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel of claim 9, wherein the interior support members of the adjacent load bearing wall are configured to transmit the force received from the drag anchor and the peripheral angle into sheet metal of a floor-ceiling corridor panel directly attached to the adjacent load bearing wall.
 11. A multi-story building, comprising: one or more levels formed from prefabricated interior panels and prefabricated exterior panels, the one or more levels being substantially parallel to a ground plane defined by a foundation; and a floor-ceiling panel arranged to form a portion of a floor of the one or more levels, the floor-ceiling panel comprising: a plurality of parallel metal studs; an end member affixed to a distal end of at least one stud of the plurality of parallel metal studs; and a drag anchor fixedly attached to the end member and the distal end, the drag anchor comprising a first body panel foldably attached to a second body panel at a first fold line, the first fold line in alignment and upon the distal end, the drag anchor further comprising a washer section having at least one edge in alignment with the first fold line, wherein the washer section is attached to the second body panel.
 12. The multi-story building of claim 11, wherein the floor-ceiling panel further comprises a plurality of ceiling layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.
 13. The multi-story building of claim 12, wherein the plurality of ceiling layers form a ceiling for an interior space.
 14. The multi-story building of claim 11, wherein the floor-ceiling panel further comprises a plurality of floor layers affixed to transverse edges of the plurality of metal studs.
 15. The multi-story building of claim 14, wherein the plurality of floor layers form the portion of the floor.
 16. The multi-story building of claim 11, wherein the pre-manufactured floor-ceiling panel defines a horizontal diaphragm arranged transmit drag forces through the drag anchor and across the multi-story building.
 17. The multi-story building of claim 11, wherein the drag anchor is welded to the distal end at one or more of the first body panel and the second body panel.
 18. The multi-story building of claim 11, wherein the drag anchor is arranged to be fastened to a peripheral angle arranged about a periphery of the floor-ceiling panel.
 19. The multi-story building of claim 18, wherein the drag anchor is arranged to transmit drag force through the peripheral angle and into interior support members of an adjacent load bearing wall.
 20. The multi-story building of claim 19, wherein the interior support members of the adjacent load bearing wall are configured to transmit the force received from the drag anchor and the peripheral angle into a floor-ceiling corridor panel directly attached to the adjacent load bearing wall. 